With the coming of spring’s pleasant weather, often comes the return of unpleasant allergy symptoms. Unfortunately, that persistent cough and chronically itchy feeling may not just be the result of seasonal changes.

If you thought cockroaches were merely unsanitary and unsightly, think again. Find out just how much havoc they can wreak on your health and discover how exactly to get rid of them for good.

The Creepy-Crawly Facts

According to WebMD, most sufferers of cockroach allergies can be found in cities. In fact, at least 78% of urban homes have cockroaches. These pests enjoy warmer climates most of all, making them a particular issue for southerners. Regardless, roaches can invade just about any space and their effects aren’t pretty.

Roaches love some of the most obvious places like trash cans and kitchens. However, you’ll still find them hiding out in places like your dog’s food bowl and under pipes.

If that’s not creepy enough, prepare yourself for the ickiest fact of all:

One cockroach sighting means at least 800 could be incognito somewhere else in your home or the surrounding area.

Signs and Symptoms to Watch Out For

By now you’ve realized that roaches can be a big problem just about anywhere. But how do they affect our health? Cockroach allergies typically present themselves like any other allergy, with a runny nose, scratchy cough, itchy and stinging eyes. They may also cause skin rashes. The actual allergens come from the saliva, body parts, and digestive enzymes of the insect.

Here’s a real problem besides the constant discomfort: asthma. Consistent exposure to roaches can provoke asthma attacks, leaving sufferers hospitalized or worse.

People with chronic bronchial asthma are at high risk as are children with asthma and allergies. Chest tightness and shortness of breath are the most alarming symptoms of all and should be treated by a trusted medical provider immediately.

Tips for Roach Prevention and Treatment

Your mom was right. Eating in your bedroom is a major no-no. Unfortunately, a quick afternoon snack can bring in the roaches fast. Making these spaces off-limits to eating is the first step to prevention.

Next, be sure to seal up and empty out trash cans regularly. Allowing leftover food to sit in the trash can overnight is all it takes to attract a few new house guests.

Be sure to wipe down baseboards, pantry shelves and spaces beneath the fridge and stove regularly. Close up any cracks and holes around the home with silicone caulk. Finally, be sure to fix any leaky pipes.

What if you’re already dealing with a roach problem? Baits and boric acid can help.

However, these types of treatments aren’t a long term solution for most households. They also pose challenges and often dangers for families with small children and pets.

If you’ve noticed cockroaches in your home, felt allergy symptoms or even seen roach feces, you may very well have an infestation on your hands. This situation requires expert attention and services.

Why Invest in Pest Control

Let’s face it. Getting rid of pests is a big task; it’s also something that most of us would like to endure only every so often. Instead of wasting money and time on short-term fixes, go for actually effective pest control. The National Pest Management Association recommends contacting a licensed pest professional in case of an infestation.

Dugas Pest Control offers a variety of services tailored toward Louisiana residents. Our Integrated Pest Management plan focuses on inspection, identification and treatment. This method works to create a plan that focuses on your individual needs and concerns.

Dugas Pest Control not only exterminates pests, we also work to prevent them. Our effective roach control plans limit the chance of re-infestation and offer you peace of mind.

Enjoy a life without cockroach allergens by scheduling a free consultation with Dugas Pest Control!